Monuments In Bangalore

Bangalore, the silicon valley of India, attracts large number of tourists every year with its fascinating architecture, lush green gardens and bustling shopping complexes. Better known as the IT hub of modern-day India, Bangalore hasn’t really dumped its vibrant veneer to metamorphose itself into a concrete jungle. If you really want to explore the rich culture and heritage of the city, then all you have to do is ditch the shopping malls and urban complexes and take a trip down the monuments here. The monuments here uphold the historical legacy of the city with utmost panache. The monuments are stamped with regal legacy of the dynasties like Kadambas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Wodeyars, Vijaynagar Empire and Britishers and unveil the ornate charm of the city’s imperial past. Today, these monuments stand as iconic emblems of modern Bangalore. Explore this article to know more about monuments in Bangalore and their magnificent heritage.

Landmarks Of Bangalore

Bangalore Palace
The rambling Bangalore Palace, nestled amidst the sprawling Palace Gardens, is a sheer visual treat for the eyes. Located at Vasanth Nagar, this Tudor-styled palace, which is believed to emulate Windsor Castle in London, was built by Chamaraja Wodeyar, the Maharaja of Mysore, in the year 1887. This sprawling palace, which is spread across 454 acres of land, is famous for its gracefully carved woodwork and lush green garden. Adding to its magnificence are the fortified towers, Gothic windows, turrets, beautiful paintings and glorious carvings. Today, the palace dishes out as a favorite venue for various exhibition shows, music concerts, cultural programs and more. Bangalore Palace is open on all days from 10 am to 5pm, except on Wednesdays.

Vidhana Soudha
Vidhana Soudha, situated near Cubbon Park at Kasturba Road, is the administrative building of Karnataka State Government. This building, styled in neo-Dravidian style, was constructed in 1954 by Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the former Chief Minister of Karnataka. Housing 22 departments and 300 rooms, the décor of the building is simply stunning. This white granite architecture consists of four domes on four corners while the main entrance consists of four headed lion, the symbol of power. Visitors are not allowed inside this building. However, you can enjoy the spectacular view of its magnificent architecture from outside.

Attara Kacheri
Attara Kacheri, the magnificent red building located in Kasturba Road, is the High Court of Karnataka. Situated opposite Vidhana Soudha, this majestic red brick edifice, build during the reign of Tipu Sultan, was constructed in the year 1867. This Greco-Roman style architecture melds well with the white beauty of Vidhana Soudha and stands in striking contrast to this state administrative building. Attara Kacheri, meaning eighteen offices, initially housed eighteen state offices. However, post-Independence, this public office was converted into High Court, in the year 1956. On your visit to Bangalore, don’t forget to steal a glimpse of this multi-storeyed red edifice.

Tipu Sultan’s Palace
Tipu Sultan’s Palace, situated near Albert Victor Road, serves as a historical legacy of Bangalore. The construction of this magnificent palace was initiated by Hyder Ali and was completed by his son Tipu Sultan in the year 1761. This grand two-storeyed palace, which is believed to replicate the summer palace of Tipu Sultan, was initially called as Envy of Heaven. This spectacular construction is popular for its wooden structure, gracefully designed balconies and flower designs on walls and ceilings. Today this palace stands as a museum and is open to visitors on all days except on Fridays.

Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall
Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is a red building in Cubbon Park, built in memory of Sir K. Seshadri Iyer the renowned Diwan or Minister of Mysore. This hallmark of British rule, with its elegant Gothic red stone structure is one of the most coveted tourist places in Bangalore. Replete with a natural garden and a statue of Seshadri Iyer, this building now stands as a State Library and is believed to be every bibliophile’s dream destination.